Technician Janet goes for gold with Invertek's two millionth VFD
5 May 2021
Variable frequency drives (VFD) manufacturer Invertek Drives has marked the production of its two millionth drive with a one-off golden version.
The unique ‘golden drive’ was produced at the company’s 5,500sq metre global assembly centre at Welshpool, Powys.
It follows Invertek’s announcement of record sales during 2020 and the first quarter of 2021 – a period preceded by significant continued year-on-year.
The two millionth drive is part of an order placed by Hiflex Automatiseringstechniek BV – Invertek’s sales partner in the Netherlands. The Optidrive E3 will be sent to the Dutch firm’s headquarters in Ridderkerk, Rotterdam.
“We’ve reached a significant milestone in our history. Nearly two million Optidrives are now operating around the world,” said Shaun Dean, CEO of Invertek Drives and Senior Vice President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd (SHI) .
“VFDs are playing a major part in helping reduce carbon emissions globally through efficient motor control. We’re very proud of how our inverter technology is helping contribute to that.”
The two millionth drive was assembled by one of Intertek’s longest-serving manufacturing technicians, Janet Evans (pictured), who has worked with the company for 18 years.
She works on one of the unique Global Assembly Cells (GAC), where each drive is built to order, tested, and packed before being consolidated and despatched internationally.
“I felt very privileged to have assembled the two millionth drive. I’ve seen the company grow and develop over the years. It’s amazing to think so many of the drives I’ve assembled are being used all over the world,” said Evans.
Established in 1998, Invertek Drives was acquired in November 2019 by Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd, a leading global manufacturer and distributor of power transmission and control equipment.
